What motivates people to engage with storytelling, both as creators and participants, in different formats like podcasting and lighting?

A lighting designer reflects on the parallels between creating ambiance for theater and producing audio stories.

I joke with people that I still know in that industry and I’m like I did lighting for 20 years and now I’m calling myself a sound guy I don’t know what the heck is going on.

~ Sean Mallary (22:45)

The conversation explores the intersections of storytelling, personal connections, and technical expertise, primarily through the lens of podcasting and lighting design. Sean shares his preference for working behind the scenes, explaining that producing and editing align more closely with his personality. He also recounts transformative experiences as a Lyft driver, discussing the vulnerability of passengers and the inspiration it provided for creative projects.

Another key topic is the balance between personal growth and professional roles. Sean reflects on how interviewing strangers has enhanced his communication skills, contrasting this with his previous career in lighting, where collaboration took center stage. The importance of community emerges as a recurring theme, with the Akimbo workshop highlighted as a space for connection and skill-sharing in the otherwise solitary pursuit of podcasting.

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